Thousands of app-based transport drivers in Lagos are planning a massive 24-hour shutdown on May 1, 2025, International Workers’ Day in protest of what they describe as exploitative practices by ride-hailing companies.
The strike is being organised by the Lagos chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON). It will affect services on popular platforms including Uber, Bolt, inDrive, Lagride, and Rida.
According to the union, drivers will log off all ride-hailing apps for the entire day, halting operations and refusing ride requests. The protest is aimed at calling attention to ongoing issues like poor pay, arbitrary deactivations, insecurity, and exploitative policies enforced by these platforms.
Economic Pressure Is the Only Language They Understand
In a statement issued on Tuesday, AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, said the strike was necessary because app companies had continuously ignored drivers’ grievances.
“We have tried dialogue, and it hasn’t worked. These companies only understand one language: the language of economic pressure.” Iwindoye stated.
He added that this year’s protest would be different from previous ones, with the union mobilising at least 5,000 drivers across Lagos to participate.
“Believe me, this will be different,”Iwindoye said, stressing that the union was ready to make a real impact.
Drivers Say They Are Tired of Being Exploited
At the heart of the protest is a list of long-standing complaints. Drivers say they are underpaid, subjected to sudden and unfair account deactivations, and exposed to danger due to the lack of proper rider verification systems.
Many are also frustrated by mandatory facial recognition tools, which they argue invade their privacy and do little to improve safety. Others have criticised the high commission rates charged by these platforms, claiming that what they earn often isn’t enough to cover fuel, maintenance, and other running costs.
“The job is ridiculing a lot of drivers, and it is sad. Some drivers can’t even fix their cars when they break down,” one driver said, capturing the financial pressure many are under.
Another driver criticised inDrive’s business model, saying, “The only play drive inDrive has is a low price. Nothing more.” He described the fare structure as unsustainable for drivers, despite attracting customer demand.
Protest Could Disrupt Mobility Across Lagos
If the strike is carried out as planned, the impact on commuters in Lagos could be significant. Ride-hailing apps are a key part of the city’s transport system, especially for last-mile connectivity. A shutdown could cause delays, increased costs, and reliance on alternative, and often less reliable transport options.
In the past, driver-led protests have succeeded in forcing app companies to reconsider fare changes. For instance, earlier in 2025, Bolt slashed fares by 50%, triggering widespread outrage among drivers. The company eventually reversed the decision, but not before tensions flared. Many drivers saw the move as an attempt to gain market share at their expense.
Pushing for Recognition and Reform
AUATON is not just calling for a one-day protest but plans to follow the strike with a formal list of demands and structured negotiations. The union says it has the backing of labour groups, media allies, and other advocacy organisations, and it wants companies to begin treating drivers as critical partners, not just expendable assets.
“The private transport sector can’t continue to grow while ignoring the basic needs of the people powering it. This is a global call to action. App-based drivers are not isolated individuals, they are a collective force.” Iwindoye said.
With May 1st approaching, AUATON is positioning the strike not only as a response to immediate grievances but also as a symbolic stand for workers’ dignity, safety, and fair treatment in the age of digital labour platforms.
